Laokoon

1607–1608

The lawsuit with the hospital at Illescas

In 1607–08 El Greco was involved in a protracted legal dispute with the Hospital of Charity at Illescas over payment for his work, which included painting, sculpture and architecture. This and other disputes contributed to the economic difficulties of his last years.

1608

His last major commission: the Hospital of Saint John the Baptist

In 1608 El Greco received his last major commission, for the Hospital of Saint John the Baptist in Toledo.

1611

A visit from Francisco Pacheco

The painter and theorist Francisco Pacheco, who visited El Greco in 1611, condemned his idea of the primacy of colour over form and his broad-brush manner, yet called the master “a writer of painting, sculpture and architecture”.

c. March 1614

Serious illness while working for the Hospital de Tavera

While carrying out a commission for the Hospital de Tavera El Greco fell seriously ill and died a month later, on 7 April 1614.

31 March 1614

His will, a week before his death

On 31 March 1614, a week before his death, El Greco directed that his son should have the power to make his will; two Greek friends witnessed it. In the will he described himself as a “devout Catholic”, although archival research indicates that his family was Greek Orthodox.

7. April 1614

Died